Knowledge of students about rabies and its post exposure prophylaxis and health seeking behaviour in University of Western UP.

Abstract

Introduction: Rabies is a major public health problem in Asia. Of the estimated 55,000 human cases that occur annually worldwide, more than half occur in Asian countries. Rabies is exceptionally fatal encephalitis but can be prevented by appropriate post exposure prophylaxis. Objectives: To assess the knowledge of students about rabies and its causes, reservoir , mode of transmission , symptoms, wound management , post exposure prophylaxis , seeking behaviour, site for anti rabies vaccine administration after dog bite. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 375 college students in various colleges under Swami Vivekananda Subharti University Meerut UP. Results: (55%) of students knew that rabies is caused by a virus. 18.66% students knew correct first aid measures such as wash with soap and water. Conclusion: The findings of the study indicated lack of knowledge on various aspects of the rabies & its prevention. There are many misconceptions and lack of awareness about rabies. There is strong need to organize awareness programme using educational session.